Champion jockey brothers Jose and Irad Ortiz have been alleged to have been involved in illegal cockfighting in their native Puerto Rico, according to a media report published on the eve of the Preakness Stakes.
The Allegations
The claims emerged in an investigation by USA Today, which examined social media posts and videos. In one video posted in November and shared more widely in January, the brothers appear to be collecting cash from inside the ring at a cockfighting event in Puerto Rico. Cockfighting, where roosters often fight to the death, has been illegal in the US and its territories, including Puerto Rico, since 2019, though it remains a cultural tradition on the Caribbean island and events have continued.
USA Today also uncovered a Facebook post advertising a cockfighting event in December last year featuring a photo of the Ortiz brothers. The post read: "Meet the Participants. Brothers Irad and José Luis Ortiz accepted the challenge of competing in the tournament of champions known as the 'Gran Campeón Caribeño' (Caribbean Grand Champion), with a single goal: to attempt to be crowned the undisputed champions."
Background on the Jockeys
Jose Ortiz rode Golden Tempo to win this year's Kentucky Derby, beating Renegade ridden by his brother Irad, who has been the number one jockey by wins and earnings in the US for the last four years. Combined, they have ridden winners of total prize-money exceeding £520 million on the track. On Saturday, both are set to ride in the second leg of the US Triple Crown, the Preakness Stakes at Laurel Park, with Jose partnering Chip Honcho and Irad on Talkin.
Reactions and Calls for Action
Animal rights activists have urged racing authorities to take action, calling for the brothers to be banned from eligibility for Eclipse Awards and for an investigation to be conducted. Neither the brothers nor their representatives responded to requests for comment. The Horse Racing Safety and Integrity Authority’s jurisdiction does not cover Puerto Rico, complicating any potential regulatory response.
